Kubota Engines | Innovative Engine Solutions

The Journey of Dragon Equipment:Innovation with Kubota Engines

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Dragon Equipment innovates compact crushers powered by reliable Kubota engines, promoting efficiency, portability, and sustainability.

The Challenge

What problem led Jeff Haines to develop a compact concrete crusher in 2017?

In 2017, Jeff Haines, an engineer with hands-on experience, faced a challenge while working on a home improvement project. Tasked with demolishing a small outbuilding on his property, he struggled to find a concrete crusher that would fit the narrow bridge leading to his site. The available heavy equipment was simply too large for the job, and the need for a compact, portable solution was clear.

“I couldn’t find the right equipment that would do the job without taking up too much space or being too heavy for access,” said Jeff. “That’s when the idea for a smaller, more adaptable concrete crusher started to form.”

Group 5

What are the benefits?

The Solution

Building his own concrete crusher

Faced with the problem and determined to find a solution, Jeff decided to design and build his own concrete crusher. With a background in engineering, he used his skills to develop a compact, portable unit that could be easily transported and operated in tight spaces. The result was a machine that could handle concrete demolition efficiently without the need for large equipment. Jeff’s innovation went beyond just the machine’s size; he focused on performance, ensuring that the crusher was powerful enough to tackle tough jobs while being small enough to access limited areas.

Developing the crusher as a sustainable solution for the construction industry

But there was more to Jeff’s design than just portability. As he continued developing his crusher, he saw an opportunity to create a more sustainable solution for the construction industry. Concrete demolition typically leads to a significant amount of waste, but with a crusher that could easily be transported to the site, businesses could recycle the material right on location. By crushing concrete into reusable aggregate, they could reduce waste and minimize the need for new raw materials. This approach aligns with a growing demand for sustainability in construction, where companies are increasingly looking for ways to lower their environmental impact. Which is ultimately one of Kubota’s core goals as well. 

After successfully demolishing the outbuilding and recycling the concrete with his homemade crusher, Jeff saw an opportunity to turn this solution into a business. He founded Dragon Equipment, focusing on producing small, portable crushers and lifting equipment for those who needed solutions like his. The key to making these machines reliable and efficient was choosing the right engine.

When it came to power, Jeff turned to Kubota, knowing that their engines were known for their reliability and performance. The CR450 concrete crusher, for example, is powered by the Kubota D722 engine, a 19hp, 3-cylinder, water-cooled diesel engine. This engine provided the necessary power to ensure the crusher could perform demanding tasks while remaining fuel-efficient and compact. It was the perfect fit for Jeff’s vision of creating powerful yet portable machines.

With Kubota engines, Dragon Equipment was able to scale its operations and meet global emission standards, giving their products an edge in international markets. Jeff’s ability to combine his practical problem-solving skills with the right technology allowed Dragon Equipment to provide a solution to the growing demand for compact, high-performance, and environmentally conscious construction equipment.

The People

"Kubota engines are known for their reliability and performance worldwide. We’ve seen firsthand how well they’ve supported Dragon Equipment’s growth, providing not only powerful engines but also excellent after-sales service."

Phil Brown, Managing Director at Uni-power, a Kubota distributor

Dragon Equipment’s success isn’t just about the innovative products; it’s also about the collaboration that made them possible. Jeff’s vision, combined with the support from Kubota, played a pivotal role in turning an idea into a thriving business.

With the backing of Kubota’s trusted technology, Jeff and his team were able to develop products that not only met the specific needs of their customers but also positioned Dragon Equipment as a leader in the portable construction equipment market. Jeff summed it up: “Having Kubota engines in our products has been a game-changer. The power and efficiency they offer are unmatched, and their support has allowed us to focus on innovation and sustainability.”

As Dragon Equipment continues to grow, the partnership with Kubota remains at the core of its success, enabling the company to expand its global reach and continue providing valuable solutions to businesses in need of reliable, portable equipment.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The Kubota Engines contributes to the UN Sustainability Development Goals of energy efficiency, promoting innovation, supporting sustainable cities, and protecting the climate and life on land.

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